A vehicle inspection can be a source of stress for drivers, as they may not always have a perfect understanding of their car’s technical condition. The tests conducted at a diagnostic station are designed to confirm that the car is safe and roadworthy, making the inspection akin to an exam for the vehicle. So, how can one adequately prepare for it?
It’s important to note that “car inspection” is a colloquial term. The formal procedure involves conducting a technical inspection of the car annually. This inspection, also referred to as a periodic car inspection, serves as a comprehensive check to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty or prepare the vehicle for the upcoming season. While we will use the terms interchangeably in this article, both refer to the same process.
How often do you need to have your car serviced?
The frequency of car servicing typically occurs annually at a designated vehicle inspection station, commonly known as a diagnostic station, with some exceptions. If the car fails to meet all the required standards, the diagnostician may issue a conditional driving permit. After addressing and rectifying the identified defects, the vehicle must undergo another inspection. A similar process applies if the car is deemed unfit for road use, in which case it won’t receive a conditional permit.
For new cars, a diagnostic inspection is required three years after the initial registration, with subsequent inspections occurring every two years. It’s important to note that this does not apply to cars equipped with a factory gas installation or those used for professional passenger transport; such vehicles require an annual inspection. Additionally, the first registration of a car in the country involves an inspection.
Vintage cars, on the other hand, undergo technical inspection only once.
Car technical inspection: what do diagnosticians check?
A car’s technical inspection involves a thorough examination of various components by an authorized diagnostician. The suspension’s condition is scrutinized using specialized equipment, focusing on components like wishbones, steering rods, and shock absorbers. Brakes, both foot and handbrake, are subjected to rigorous testing. The inspection extends to external lights, ensuring their proper functionality, and assessing the sound signal, engine condition (checking for leaks), and adherence to exhaust emission standards. The diagnostician verifies the VIN’s alignment with the registration certificate, records the odometer reading, and, upon success, stamps the registration certificate.
For vehicles with gas installations, additional checks encompass the installation’s condition, examining gas papers, including the tank’s usage approval, and ensuring the system’s tightness. With percentage data illustrating the effectiveness of the suspension and brakes, the thorough inspection offers feedback on the vehicle’s functionality.
How do you prepare your car for inspection?
To prepare for the car inspection, gather essential documents, including the registration certificate and, if applicable, the gas installation approval certificate. If the meter has been replaced, provide a certificate for such repairs. Once the documents are ready, focus on the vehicle’s readiness. Verify the functionality of all lights, replace bulbs if needed, inspect the engine for leaks, and assess the suspension and brakes. Address any doubts by conducting a test inspection at a car workshop to rectify potential faults.
As a pre-inspection tip, give your car a thorough wash and vacuum. A well-maintained and orderly vehicle exudes confidence, and a neat appearance can be crucial, as illegible license plates or poorly visible lamps might hinder obtaining the necessary stamp on the registration certificate.
How much does a car inspection cost?
How much does it cost to have a car inspection? The expense is contingent on the extent of diagnostic procedures conducted by the examiner.
The standard fee for inspecting a regular passenger car without a gas installation is $25.24 USD. If any irregularities are identified, a subsequent check after repairs will incur an additional cost of 5.10 USD. In the case of a mandatory inspection following an accident or collision, which may be directed by the police, the fee amounts to 23.96 USD.
For cars equipped with an LGP installation, the cost is higher, totaling 41.29 USD for the service.
Penalty for missing an inspection—it’s not worth the delay!
Neglecting a mandatory inspection is not advisable, as it carries penalties. In the USA, as well as in most European countries, failure to undergo an inspection can lead to fines and other repercussions. The fine for missing an inspection can range from 5.10 USD to as much as 127.43 USD. Additionally, there is a risk of losing the registration certificate, effectively restricting the ability to drive the car until the inspection is completed promptly.
As of now, conducting a car inspection after the deadline does not result in a penalty at the diagnostic station. However, there are parliamentary proposals to introduce increased fees for delayed inspections, although such regulations have not been implemented yet. It’s crucial to view the diagnostic test as an opportunity to assess the safety of the car, making it prudent not to procrastinate until the last minute.
